Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, the most romantic resort in Mauritius. Located on one of the finest resort sites on the island, the resort unfolds its magnificent suites and villas along a long stretch of beach and reaches back another 300 metres into lush, tropical greenery. In keeping with global principles of environmental preservation, Beachcomber ensured that the ancient trees dotted around the area were preserved.

Known for its year-round fabulous weather, the location of Trou aux Biches makes it a highly coveted Mauritian resort. Natural colours and fabrics have been specially selected in the decor to preserve that authentic island style - a trademark of this resort. A staggering 100 swimming pools, some of them private, make this hotel the first choice for the well-travelled, with world-class service, spectacular sunsets and a relaxed atmosphere to complete the experience.

Featuring an outdoor pool, terrace, and garden, Eco Park Lodge is situated in Centurion and offers accommodation with free Wi-Fi in all areas. O.R. Tambo International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.

The restaurant serves regional cuisine, and an English breakfast is provided each morning. Other facilities at the hotel include a tour desk, business centre, and BBQ facilities.

WELCOME TO ZANZIBAR

Jambo! This is the Swahili greeting that you will hear on arrival when you are welcomed by the warm and inviting locals. Zanzibar is the name of an archipelago in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of East Africa. There are many small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, sometimes informally referred to as 'Zanzibar'), and Pemba Island. As the number one beach location in East Africa, Zanzibar is a wonderful island, with classic tropical beaches, lush plantations, an incredible history and a fascinating culture. Apart from historic Stone Town, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, Zanzibar is known for its beautiful palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs.

HISTORY

Zanzibar was inhabited by Portuguese navigators at the end of the 15^th century. They were ousted 200 years later by the Omani Arabs and Zanzibar became a major centre for slave trading. The island became an Arab state and was an important centre of trade and politics in the region. European explorers, including Stanley and Livingstone, began their expeditions into the interior of Africa from Zanzibar in the late 1800’s. In 1964, the sultan and the government were overthrown in a revolution and in the same year, Zanzibar and Tanganyika combined to form the United Republic of Tanzania.

LANGUAGE

The indigenous language spoken throughout Zanzibar is Swahili (called Kiswahili locally). English is widely spoken and understood. Jambo Rafiki – Hello my friend!

CULTURE

Most of the people in Zanzibar are Muslim and all towns and villages on Zanzibar Island have mosques. Visitors to Zanzibar Town (Stone Town) will hear the evocative sound of the muezzins calling people to prayer from the minarets, especially for the evening session at sunset. There are also small populations of Christians and Hindus.

CLIMATE

Zanzibar is a few degrees south of the equator and enjoys a very tropical climate. The average daytime high is between 28°C and 32°C and the night-time lows are between 20°C and 25°C. Temperature wise – this island is an all-year-round winner. February is very hot and very humid (just leave your hair straightener at home!) and March to May are the wettest months.

CURRENCY

The local currency is Tanzania Shillings (TSH) but the currency cannot be bought outside of the country. Cash (US Dollars) and credit cards are accepted at hotels and at any Bureau de Change. We strongly recommend that you take USD cash in small denominations for incidental purchases, tips etc.

ELECTRICITY

220/230 V. square pin adapter (same plugs as UK). It is advisable to take along an international adaptor.

MALARIA

As Zanzibar is situated in a malaria zone, it is recommended that you consult your physician on the correct preventative medication required before you travel.

WHAT TO DO IN ZANZIBAR

Whether you spend your days lazing by the pool, sipping cocktails on the beach at sunset, diving in warm waters or enjoying a Dhow cruise around small islands, your Zanzibar holiday will be a memorable experience.

• Diving: With living reefs surrounding the islands, Zanzibar has excellent dive locations. There are plenty of places where the water temperature is warm, visibility is usually excellent, and currents are weak, all of which contributes to an ideal location for first time and novice divers. In addition to the warm and still waters full of colourful fish, there are many challenging dives as well. If you want to surf the current through a ravine, go for deep water, or search for wrecks, there are dive companies that can make it happen for you. Many of the larger resorts on the north and east coasts have professionally-run dive shops as well. Qualified divers must produce certification and a log book.

• Shopping: Whether you’re in the market for T-shirts, spices, kangas, furniture or hand sewn pillow covers, Stone Town is a great place for fun shopping and bargain hunting. You will find the inevitable ashtray carved out of a coconut shell, but there are enough Tinga-tinga paintings, woodcarvings and woven goods to keep almost everyone in the market for a tasteful souvenir.
• Stone Town: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, Stone Town is a mishmash of cultures, languages and architecture. Over the centuries, Stone Town has grown from a small fishing village to a thriving town with an extraordinary history. Walking around Stone Town, you can see the influence of the different cultures that make up Zanzibar. Coral and stone houses show offimposing Zanzibar doors with brass studs as a defence against charging elephants and carvings with scriptures from the Quran. A tour of the town is highly recommended.
• Excursions: There are loads of excursions available to help you explore this unique island. It is wise to stick to a reputable operator and not be lured by beach boys and vendors who prey on tourists promising cheap prices. There are two excursions that are not to be missed in our opinion. A visit to a spice farm village on the Spice Tour will allow you to walk through the farm with your guide – touching, smelling and tasting different spices and fruits. It will give you an insight into local life and the opportunity to try some Swahili dishes, taste the fruits in season and try some spiced tea.

Setting sail on a traditional dhow will be one of the highlights of your trip. Safari Blue is a full day excursion which takes you out into Menai Bay – a haven of beautiful uninhabited islands where the waters are frequented by humpback and bottlenose dolphins. The anchor is dropped on a sandbank which makes for some spectacular snorkelling. Drinks are served throughout the day and lunch is a buffet of grilled fish, lobster, calamari and chicken. Make sure this one is on your itinerary.

Named after the rare Burasari flower that grows on the property, Burasari is a Phuket resort that is an unexpected treasure in the heart of exciting Patong. Burasari is a boutique hotel in Phuket unlike any other Patong Beach hotel, offering a full experience of sophisticated style, comfort, privacy, tranquility, and a first class international dining for discerning travellers. Burasari's Feel at Home philosophy gives our guests the experience of a warm home that embraces you with stylish design, great food, caring service and the calming elements of nature.

Coastlands Musgrave Hotel has elegantly decorated rooms with a balcony overlooking the surrounding area. Each of the air-conditioned rooms has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a seating area, and a coffee maker.

The stylish ground floor restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in a casual but elegant environment, while the coffee shop serves delectable cakes and desserts. Guests can also relax in the outdoor terrace with a cocktail. The hotel’s spa provides facial therapies, body treatments, and head massages.

There is also a golf course nearby the hotel. King Shaka International Airport is 27 km from the property and Umhlanga is a 20-minute drive away.

What makes the accommodation at this hotel so special is that it is exclusively suites: Junior Suites, Club Junior Suites, Club Junior Beachfront Suites and Club Senior Beachfront Suites and a selection of suite categories in the adults-only crescent. Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa’s location is among the most stunning in Mauritius (at the foot of Le Morne Mountain) which makes this resort that much more desired by discerning guests. View the exquisite ocean views from Dinarobin’s characteristically deep verandahs, giving each suite the feeling of a private seaside home.

The public areas consist of vast spaces under rustic thatch canopies. Reflecting ponds have transformed the main restaurant into a fairyland of twinkling lights where tables are set on islets. If you’re in the mood for Italian fare, genuine Tuscan delights await you at the second restaurant. The newest addition to Dinarobin's culinary offering is Umami, a pan-Asian restaurant open for dinner.

Lunch is served right on the beach, so you don't have to miss one moment on the velvet sand to enjoy your meals. An exclusive adults-only crescent is available at Dinarobin whereby adults who seek an especially tranquil and refined environment have the opportunity to book accommodation reserved for guests aged 18 years and older. Certain perks and facilities are available to residents of the adults crescent, in addition to the pool in crescent six being reserved for guests residing in this crescent as well as an adults’ only section of beach next to the alfresco beach bar, adjacent to this crescent. Membership to the exclusive Club at Dinarobin is included for occupants of the Club suite categories.

Those who seek a paradisiacal golfing holiday should look no further than reserving a Golf Junior suite at Dinarobin. Unlimited green fees at Paradis' 18 hole championship course and Mont Choisy Le Golf in the north together with a free golf cart per game are included. Guests who book for seven nights, or longer, enjoy complimentary green fees at a non-Beachcomber golf course.

Set in Johannesburg, 24 km from Sandton City Mall, Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Among the various facilities are a bar, a shared lounge, as well as a garden.

The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage space and currency exchange for guests.

The Old Phuket offers Sino-Portuguese style architecture and an atmosphere that will take guests back to the days of the spice trade and the golden age of travel before resorts and package tours. The golden sands of Karon Beach stretch out in front of the hotel, and the hustle and bustle of Patong Beach is a short drive away.

A full English breakfast buffet is served daily in the Sky Lounge which is located on the top floor of the hotel, offering guests unobstructed ocean views.

The Durban ICC and the Moses Mabhida stadium are both less than 2 km away. Belaire Suites Hotel is 31 km from King Shaka International Airport. On-site parking and an airport shuttle service are available at a surcharge.

WELCOME TO VICTORIA FALLS

Locally known as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’, translating to the ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, Victoria Falls are deservedly one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Forming a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, fed by the mighty Zambezi River, the Falls are a sight to behold!

The 100m vertical chasm spanning the full one and a half kilometre width of the river, creates the biggest curtain of falling water in the world and one of the most extraordinary displays of nature’s might and magnificence. Despite the beauty of the Falls themselves, this region warrants the reputation as an adventure centre, offering a plethora of adrenaline-inducing activities both in and around the Falls. The best time for viewing the Falls is from July to October when the water levels are high but the mist has subsided, offering clearer views.

LANGUAGE

The indigenous languages are Ndebele and Shona but English is the official language and is widely spoken and understood.

CULTURE

One arrival in Victoria Falls you will be greeted by some of the friendliest people in the world. The predominant religion is Christianity, with traditional beliefs in rural areas, and some Hindu, Muslim and Jewish minorities.

CLIMATE

Victoria Falls is situated in a summer rainfall region. Instead of differentiating the climate according to the conventional spring/summer/autumn/winter divide, locals consider there to be two distinct climates - the dry season and the wet season. The dry season begins in May and extends through autumn and winter into October. The early part of the dry season is a temperate time with daytime temperatures in the early 20°C range and the mercury often falling to single digit figures at night.

Generally, the rains begin during the course of November and, by December, the wet season has usually set in with hot daytime temperatures, lightened by torrential downpours that generally take place during the late afternoon. At night, temperatures are an average 18°C and, during the day, the temperature can rise into the 30’s. Visiting the Victoria Falls during the wet and dry seasons is a markedly different experience. In early summer, the water level in the Zambezi is at its lowest, and the spray from the Falls is least dense, allowing for more visibility and better photographic conditions. Low water levels mean that parts of the Falls dry up, particularly on the Zambian side, but this is when Devil’s Pool is accessible. During late summer, when the Zambezi is pumping, the spray from the Falls is intense and any visitor to the rainforest can expect to be soaked.

Best time to visit Victoria Falls

May to November are the best months for most visitors but…

• If you want to see the Victoria Falls in full power, go between March and May.
• If your main reason to visit is for the white water-rafting, go between August and early January when the rapids are at their best.
• If a safari is your priority, go between May and October when the vegetation is low and animals are more easily spotted.

CURRENCY

The Zimbabwean dollar is no longer a valid currency and almost all transactions are conducted in US Dollars. The currencies presently used in Zimbabwe include US Dollars and South African Rand. Make sure you have a sufficient amount of foreign currency in your possession, prior to entering the country due to a cash shortage and the fact that many ATMs will not accept international cards. Do not change foreign exchange with moneychangers on the street, as this is illegal. It is best to travel with small denominations of foreign currency.

ELECTRICITY

240 V. square pin adapter (same plugs as UK).

MALARIA

As Victoria Falls is situated in a malaria zone, it is recommended that you consult your physician on the correct preventative medication required before you travel.

TIPPING

Bring small denominations for tipping purposes as small change is very rarely available locally. Whilst not compulsory, it is enormously appreciated and often contributes a substantial amount toward ensuring that those working in the service industry earn a living wage. Just make sure that a service charge hasn’t already been added to your bill.

WHAT TO DO IN VIC FALLS

Victoria Falls will not disappoint; whether you’re seeing the Falls for the first time or planning a hair-raising bungee jump, there is so much to do and see! Your visit will be jam packed with adventure so plan wisely. These are our top recommendations:

• See the Smoke that Thunders
• Take a Sunset River Cruise
• Go white-water rafting
• Enjoy the Flying Fox cable slide
• Do a bungee jump (111 metres – eek!)
• See Vic Falls from a helicopter – the famous "Flight of Angels”
• Be daring with a gorge swing

WHAT TO PACK

• As a guide, the maximum weight for checked luggage is 20kg in economy class and 30kg in business class
• Your hand-luggage should not weigh more than 6kg and needs to be small and compact
• Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year
• Jeans or trousers for evenings and cooler days is recommended * In more upmarket hotels and restaurants, elegant casual outfits are recommended for dinner
• Sunglasses, suntan lotion and insect repellent are a must
• Please note that camouflage clothing is banned in Zimbabwe
• Throw in a few warmer items between April and August, especially for early mornings and late evenings
• Don’t forget any medication that you might need, and be sure to pack it in your hand luggage
• Chargers for all your devices (it’s a good idea to take along a few movies on a tablet or something similar as the English TV channels in your hotel may be limited)
• A hat or cap
• Some sturdy walking shoes
• And don’t forget your binoculars

TRAVEL TIPS

• Pack a change of clothing in your hand luggage in case of baggage delays
• Clothing creases less if rolled in a sausage shape when packed – so roll, don’t fold
• No sharp objects are permitted in your hand luggage (yes, tweezers are sharp!)
• Travel insurance is a must. If you can’t afford it, you can’t afford to travel!
• Travelling with kids – please check that you have all the relevant documents including unabridged Birth Certificates.
• Put electronics, medication, toothbrushes and jewellery in your carry-on bag.
• It’s often a good idea to let your bank or credit card company know that you’re going overseas
• Be patient, be flexible, be spontaneous and have the best time ever!

Ecolux Boutique Hotel is located in Komatipoort, just 10 km from the Crocodile Bridge Gate which is the most eastern entrance to the Kruger National Park. It boasts a restaurant, bar and an outdoor swimming pool.

Ecolux serves breakfast daily and the restaurant offers organic foods with fresh, home-grown herbs and vegetables. Guests can enjoy a glass of wine at the bar.

Vast tropical grounds, a location with its own peninsula hugged by three beaches, Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa is the first choice for action-filled holidays for families and nature lovers. It boasts a range of land and water sports, four restaurants, and a wide variety of facilities on offer. The very popular premium all-inclusive package is the standard offering for all guests. This resort will leave you spoilt for choice. Shandrani is a 5-star resort on the South East Coast of Mauritius.

The leading 5-star resort choice for families, honeymoon couples and the conference and incentive groups market due to the excellent value included in the package price, it is a favourite with many South Africans who return year after year. The all-inclusive package includes many premium items and together with a choice of up to four restaurants for dinner, the value is unsurpassed. Shandrani has become well known for its spacious accommodation and superb facilities, not to mention a 9-hole mashie golf course. Spacious apartments and inter-leading rooms are perfect for the family market, while the plethora of sporting activities on offer will provide endless fun for adventurous groups.

Located in Randburg (Northcliff), House Higgo is within a 5-minute drive of Cresta Shopping Centre and Northcliff Ridge Ecopark. This 4-star guesthouse is 10.8 mi (17.4 km) from Montecasino and 5.7 mi (9.2 km) from University of Witwatersrand.

Rooms : Make yourself at home in one of the 6 individually decorated guestrooms. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Partially open bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and complimentary bottled water, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Dining : A complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast is served daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM.

WELCOME TO VICTORIA FALLS

Locally known as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’, translating to the ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, Victoria Falls are deservedly one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Forming a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, fed by the mighty Zambezi River, the Falls are a sight to behold!

The 100m vertical chasm spanning the full one and a half kilometre width of the river, creates the biggest curtain of falling water in the world and one of the most extraordinary displays of nature’s might and magnificence. Despite the beauty of the Falls themselves, this region warrants the reputation as an adventure centre, offering a plethora of adrenaline-inducing activities both in and around the Falls. The best time for viewing the Falls is from July to October when the water levels are high but the mist has subsided, offering clearer views.

LANGUAGE

The indigenous languages are Ndebele and Shona but English is the official language and is widely spoken and understood.

CULTURE

One arrival in Victoria Falls you will be greeted by some of the friendliest people in the world. The predominant religion is Christianity, with traditional beliefs in rural areas, and some Hindu, Muslim and Jewish minorities.

CLIMATE

Victoria Falls is situated in a summer rainfall region. Instead of differentiating the climate according to the conventional spring/summer/autumn/winter divide, locals consider there to be two distinct climates - the dry season and the wet season. The dry season begins in May and extends through autumn and winter into October. The early part of the dry season is a temperate time with daytime temperatures in the early 20°C range and the mercury often falling to single digit figures at night.

Generally, the rains begin during the course of November and, by December, the wet season has usually set in with hot daytime temperatures, lightened by torrential downpours that generally take place during the late afternoon. At night, temperatures are an average 18°C and, during the day, the temperature can rise into the 30’s. Visiting the Victoria Falls during the wet and dry seasons is a markedly different experience. In early summer, the water level in the Zambezi is at its lowest, and the spray from the Falls is least dense, allowing for more visibility and better photographic conditions. Low water levels mean that parts of the Falls dry up, particularly on the Zambian side, but this is when Devil’s Pool is accessible. During late summer, when the Zambezi is pumping, the spray from the Falls is intense and any visitor to the rainforest can expect to be soaked.

Best time to visit Victoria Falls

May to November are the best months for most visitors but…

• If you want to see the Victoria Falls in full power, go between March and May.
• If your main reason to visit is for the white water-rafting, go between August and early January when the rapids are at their best.
• If a safari is your priority, go between May and October when the vegetation is low and animals are more easily spotted.

CURRENCY

The Zimbabwean dollar is no longer a valid currency and almost all transactions are conducted in US Dollars. The currencies presently used in Zimbabwe include US Dollars and South African Rand. Make sure you have a sufficient amount of foreign currency in your possession, prior to entering the country due to a cash shortage and the fact that many ATMs will not accept international cards. Do not change foreign exchange with moneychangers on the street, as this is illegal. It is best to travel with small denominations of foreign currency.

ELECTRICITY

240 V. square pin adapter (same plugs as UK).

MALARIA

As Victoria Falls is situated in a malaria zone, it is recommended that you consult your physician on the correct preventative medication required before you travel.

TIPPING

Bring small denominations for tipping purposes as small change is very rarely available locally. Whilst not compulsory, it is enormously appreciated and often contributes a substantial amount toward ensuring that those working in the service industry earn a living wage. Just make sure that a service charge hasn’t already been added to your bill.

WHAT TO DO IN VIC FALLS

Victoria Falls will not disappoint; whether you’re seeing the Falls for the first time or planning a hair-raising bungee jump, there is so much to do and see! Your visit will be jam packed with adventure so plan wisely. These are our top recommendations:

• See the Smoke that Thunders
• Take a Sunset River Cruise
• Go white-water rafting
• Enjoy the Flying Fox cable slide
• Do a bungee jump (111 metres – eek!)
• See Vic Falls from a helicopter – the famous "Flight of Angels”
• Be daring with a gorge swing

WHAT TO PACK

• As a guide, the maximum weight for checked luggage is 20kg in economy class and 30kg in business class
• Your hand-luggage should not weigh more than 6kg and needs to be small and compact
• Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year
• Jeans or trousers for evenings and cooler days is recommended * In more upmarket hotels and restaurants, elegant casual outfits are recommended for dinner
• Sunglasses, suntan lotion and insect repellent are a must
• Please note that camouflage clothing is banned in Zimbabwe
• Throw in a few warmer items between April and August, especially for early mornings and late evenings
• Don’t forget any medication that you might need, and be sure to pack it in your hand luggage
• Chargers for all your devices (it’s a good idea to take along a few movies on a tablet or something similar as the English TV channels in your hotel may be limited)
• A hat or cap
• Some sturdy walking shoes
• And don’t forget your binoculars

TRAVEL TIPS

• Pack a change of clothing in your hand luggage in case of baggage delays
• Clothing creases less if rolled in a sausage shape when packed – so roll, don’t fold
• No sharp objects are permitted in your hand luggage (yes, tweezers are sharp!)
• Travel insurance is a must. If you can’t afford it, you can’t afford to travel!
• Travelling with kids – please check that you have all the relevant documents including unabridged Birth Certificates.
• Put electronics, medication, toothbrushes and jewellery in your carry-on bag.
• It’s often a good idea to let your bank or credit card company know that you’re going overseas
• Be patient, be flexible, be spontaneous and have the best time ever!

Tastefully designed with some enchanting Sino-Portuguese influence, The Andaman Seaview Hotel is located across the road from the beach and only 5 minutes walk from the restaurants and shops of Karon Beach.

A full English breakfast is available each morning at the Turbine Hotel. For light meals and drinks, there is a tapas bar and a fully stocked wine cellar.

Guests of this hotel can undergo a hot-stone massage or enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, which faces the lagoon. The sun deck offers a calm spot to read a book or magazine.

Breathtakingly beautiful public areas are one of the exceptional features that define this resort. Another is the fresh feel, clean lines and modern design of the lobby, lounge, bar and restaurant areas. There’s no way of guessing the kinds of visitors who specifically prefer Victoria, because it quickly becomes the number one resort for every kind of guest, be it they families, honeymooners or conference-goers.

The rooms are among the largest and most stylish in the 4-star category on the island, making them ideal for family holidays as most rooms can accommodate two adults and two children. Family apartments are also available with a separate room for children. Aside from the chic design of the lobby, you can stand in the entrance of the resort and gaze out over the pool and across to the sea as it stretches into a golden horizon. Sunsets are spectacular in Mauritius. At Victoria, they're mesmerising. This resort has particularly excellent facilities for the groups and incentive market, with three restaurants that ensure culinary variety with every dining experience.

Nestled in the heart of one of the most famous wildlife conservation areas in the world, Nkambeni Safari Camp welcomes you to Big Five country. Here, in the world-renowned Kruger National Park, thrilling up-close and personal wildlife experiences await you in an exclusive-use 11500 hectare private concession.

WELCOME TO ZANZIBAR

Jambo! This is the Swahili greeting that you will hear on arrival when you are welcomed by the warm and inviting locals. Zanzibar is the name of an archipelago in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of East Africa. There are many small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, sometimes informally referred to as 'Zanzibar'), and Pemba Island. As the number one beach location in East Africa, Zanzibar is a wonderful island, with classic tropical beaches, lush plantations, an incredible history and a fascinating culture. Apart from historic Stone Town, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, Zanzibar is known for its beautiful palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs.

HISTORY

Zanzibar was inhabited by Portuguese navigators at the end of the 15^th century. They were ousted 200 years later by the Omani Arabs and Zanzibar became a major centre for slave trading. The island became an Arab state and was an important centre of trade and politics in the region. European explorers, including Stanley and Livingstone, began their expeditions into the interior of Africa from Zanzibar in the late 1800’s. In 1964, the sultan and the government were overthrown in a revolution and in the same year, Zanzibar and Tanganyika combined to form the United Republic of Tanzania.

LANGUAGE

The indigenous language spoken throughout Zanzibar is Swahili (called Kiswahili locally). English is widely spoken and understood. Jambo Rafiki – Hello my friend!

CULTURE

Most of the people in Zanzibar are Muslim and all towns and villages on Zanzibar Island have mosques. Visitors to Zanzibar Town (Stone Town) will hear the evocative sound of the muezzins calling people to prayer from the minarets, especially for the evening session at sunset. There are also small populations of Christians and Hindus.

CLIMATE

Zanzibar is a few degrees south of the equator and enjoys a very tropical climate. The average daytime high is between 28°C and 32°C and the night-time lows are between 20°C and 25°C. Temperature wise – this island is an all-year-round winner. February is very hot and very humid (just leave your hair straightener at home!) and March to May are the wettest months.

CURRENCY

The local currency is Tanzania Shillings (TSH) but the currency cannot be bought outside of the country. Cash (US Dollars) and credit cards are accepted at hotels and at any Bureau de Change. We strongly recommend that you take USD cash in small denominations for incidental purchases, tips etc.

ELECTRICITY

220/230 V. square pin adapter (same plugs as UK). It is advisable to take along an international adaptor.

MALARIA

As Zanzibar is situated in a malaria zone, it is recommended that you consult your physician on the correct preventative medication required before you travel.

WHAT TO DO IN ZANZIBAR

Whether you spend your days lazing by the pool, sipping cocktails on the beach at sunset, diving in warm waters or enjoying a Dhow cruise around small islands, your Zanzibar holiday will be a memorable experience.

• Diving: With living reefs surrounding the islands, Zanzibar has excellent dive locations. There are plenty of places where the water temperature is warm, visibility is usually excellent, and currents are weak, all of which contributes to an ideal location for first time and novice divers. In addition to the warm and still waters full of colourful fish, there are many challenging dives as well. If you want to surf the current through a ravine, go for deep water, or search for wrecks, there are dive companies that can make it happen for you. Many of the larger resorts on the north and east coasts have professionally-run dive shops as well. Qualified divers must produce certification and a log book.

• Shopping: Whether you’re in the market for T-shirts, spices, kangas, furniture or hand sewn pillow covers, Stone Town is a great place for fun shopping and bargain hunting. You will find the inevitable ashtray carved out of a coconut shell, but there are enough Tinga-tinga paintings, woodcarvings and woven goods to keep almost everyone in the market for a tasteful souvenir.
• Stone Town: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, Stone Town is a mishmash of cultures, languages and architecture. Over the centuries, Stone Town has grown from a small fishing village to a thriving town with an extraordinary history. Walking around Stone Town, you can see the influence of the different cultures that make up Zanzibar. Coral and stone houses show offimposing Zanzibar doors with brass studs as a defence against charging elephants and carvings with scriptures from the Quran. A tour of the town is highly recommended.
• Excursions: There are loads of excursions available to help you explore this unique island. It is wise to stick to a reputable operator and not be lured by beach boys and vendors who prey on tourists promising cheap prices. There are two excursions that are not to be missed in our opinion. A visit to a spice farm village on the Spice Tour will allow you to walk through the farm with your guide – touching, smelling and tasting different spices and fruits. It will give you an insight into local life and the opportunity to try some Swahili dishes, taste the fruits in season and try some spiced tea.

Setting sail on a traditional dhow will be one of the highlights of your trip. Safari Blue is a full day excursion which takes you out into Menai Bay – a haven of beautiful uninhabited islands where the waters are frequented by humpback and bottlenose dolphins. The anchor is dropped on a sandbank which makes for some spectacular snorkelling. Drinks are served throughout the day and lunch is a buffet of grilled fish, lobster, calamari and chicken. Make sure this one is on your itinerary.

WHAT TO PACK

• As a guide, the maximum weight for checked luggage is 20kg in economy class.
• Your hand-luggage should not weigh more than 6kg and needs to be small and compact
• Take along your best beach and casual wear, perfect for the day
• The dress-code for dinner is usually smart casual and gents may be required to wear long trousers
• Take an umbrella or rain poncho if travelling from October to January to March to June
• When in town, men & women should have their shoulders and knees covered. Bermuda shorts and a polo shirt are perfectly fine but halter-tops and miniskirts are insulting to locals
• Sunglasses and suntan lotion are a must
• Don’t forget any medication that you might need, and be sure to pack it in your hand luggage
• Chargers for all your devices (it’s a good idea to take along a few movies on a tablet or something similar as the English TV channels in your hotel may be limited)
• Swimming shoes and goggles
• Mosquito repellent
• A sun hat or cap

TRAVEL TIPS

• Pack a change of clothing in your hand luggage in case of baggage delays (and a spare cozzie so at least you can have a swim when you get to your resort)
• Clothing creases less if rolled in a sausage shape when packed – so roll, don’t fold
• No sharp objects are permitted in your hand luggage (yes, tweezers are sharp!)
• Travel insurance is a must. If you can’t afford it, you can’t afford to travel!
• Travelling with kids – please check that you have all the relevant documents including unabridged Birth Certificates.
• Put electronics, medication, toothbrushes and jewellery in your carry-on bag
• It’s often a good idea to let your bank or credit card company know that you’re going overseas
• Be patient, be flexible, be spontaneous and have the best time ever!

DID YOU KNOW:

• Due to its proximity to the Equator, Zanzibar is warm throughout the year and has equal days and nights (12-hours each)
• The shortest war ever recorded by man is the Anglo-Zanzibar War where the British bombarded the Beit al Hukum Palace and after 38 minutes, a ceasefire was called.
• Zanzibar is popularly known as the Spice Islands.
• Zanzibar has the largest number of carved doors in Africa
• Freddie Mercury, lead singer of the band Queen, was born in Zanzibar in 1946. His birth name was actually Farouk Bulsara.